FAQs

Artwork Scanning

How big can you scan?

We can scan almost any size of artwork in. Using our A4 flatbed scanner, we take multiple scans and stitch them together using Photoshop. We've scanned pieces that are 1300 x 1800mm and 1200 x 1500mm before, so chances are, we can scan your large piece.

What resolution do you scan at?

Our Epson Perfection V700 scanner is just an A4 flatbed, but it packs a mighty punch. It can scan at up to 4800 pixels per inch! As a rule of thumb, for originals that are A3 or smaller, we scan at 300 pixels per inch. Anything larger than A3 is usually scanned at 240 pixels per inch, however oversized originals could be scanned at 180-200 pixels per inch. We will always work with you to provide you with the ideal resolution scan for its end use.

What colour mode do you scan in?

We scan in RGB colour mode, the same colour mode used for printing on large format giclée printers.

Can I scan something small and enlarge it?

Yes! We do this frequently. We can scan small original artwork or hard copies of photos (standard 6 x 4" prints for example) and blow them up to very large sizes for printing, without any loss of quality.

Can you fix my damaged photo or artwork once you've scanned it?

In most cases, yes we can fix/retouch damaged photos or artwork. We can remove stains, tears, blemishes and much more. We can even rebuild images with large amounts of missing pieces and also add colour back into an image.

Why don't you just photograph large originals?

We get asked this a lot. Put simply, we have found we get a much better result through scanning rather than photographing, due to the image being only millimetres away from the scanner, so all the detail and texture is picked up with clarity that you could only achieve through a very expensive camera with other expensive equipment like lighting and tripods. Scanning allows us to easily control the resolution and we don't have to be as concerned about lighting as we would when photographing. In saying this, sometimes certain artwork will call for photographing, as it may be framed, for example.

Fine Art Printing

Do you do giclée printing?

Yes. Giclée is another term used for inkjet prints that use fade-resistant, archival inks and archival papers. We only using genuine Epson Ultrachrome HD archival inks on our Epson 9900 fine art printer and we have a range of archival papers to choose from.

Is there a minimum quantity I need to order?

No, there is no minimum quantity, we do however have a minimum spend of $33.00 including gst. Being digital printing we can print just one print without the heavy setup costs traditional printing would incur.

Do you offer discounts on multiple / bulk orders?

What is cotton rag?

Cotton rag is a type of paper that is made from cotton textile remnants, with long fibres to provide excellent strength and archival properties. Cotton rag is far superior to any wood pulp-based paper which can hold high concentrations of acids.

Do the prints come with borders?

Yes. We are framers too so we know how important it is to leave some white space around the edge of an printed image. We leave approximately 20mm on each edge on smaller prints and 50mm on each edge on large prints. We will gladly discuss with you what size border will work best for your fine art prints, and we can even trim to the image should that be your wish.

Can I get a sample / proof print?

We have pre-printed A4 swatches of our papers available to pick up from our showroom or we can post them out to you. We can also run out small sample prints of your actual work for a small cost, please contact us for details.

What kind of file type is required?

We prefer flattened 8 bit RGB TIFF files, or JPG files with the least amount of compression for raster (pixel) based work, whilst we do also accept Press Quality PDF's for vector based work too. Make sure your files are in RGB colour mode too!

What kind of DPI do I need to supply my file in?

Let's get one thing straight - DPI stands for Dots Per Inch, and refers to how many dots a printer puts down per inch, so it doesn't really refer to the resolution of an image, even though it has become a mainstream term for describing resolution. The correct term is PPI, or Pixels Per Inch. So if you want to sound like you know your stuff, use PPI. Now that we've cleared that up and got our geek on, depending on how large your print is, it's best to supply it at between 150 to 240 pixels per inch. For large, oversize pieces, 150ppi is quite often enough, although if you can supply at 240ppi, do it. Large format digital printers are not constrained by the 300 pixels per inch concept, which really only applies to small format printing.

How long do fine art prints last?

An unframed fine art print, displayed in an album or dark storage will last over 250 years. Once framed and displayed, depending on the glazing (glass) used and where it is hanging, the longevity can vary immensely. If using standard glass or acrylic, you can expect the print to last around 70 years before it starts to show visible signs of fading. When using a UV filtering glass or acrylic, this time extends out to around 125 years. Black and white prints will last longer than colour prints.

Wallpaper Printing

What can be wallpapered?

Anywhere that has a smooth surface. The ideal surface is a plasterboard/gyprock wall with at least a primer coat of paint on it.

Is the ink you use safe for use in a hospital?

Yes, we use latex inks that are water based so are safe to use in hospitals, schools and hospitality. Our custom wallpaper prints are odourless and non-toxic, so they are environmentally friendly too.

How much does custom wallpaper cost to print?

$60 per square metre. To calculate how many square metres your wall is, simply take the width in metres and multiply it by the height in metres. Don't like maths? Please contact us for a quote.

Do you offer installation?

Yes, we can install across South East Queensland.

Can I install the wallpaper myself?

You can. It just requires a bit of patience, some water and a squeegee.

Can I supply my own photo or design?

Yes, you can supply us with your own high resolution personal photo or design. For more details on what is recommended, please contact us.

Can you design my custom wallpaper for me?

Of course. Our talented designers have created many custom wallpapers and would love to help you out.

Can the wallpaper be removed?

Yes, the wallpaper just needs to be soaked with a sponge and left for a few minutes, it can be peeled off after this with no mess left behind.

What if my wall is out of square?

We add 25mm to the edges of the print, known as 'bleed', to account for walls being slightly out of square etc.

Can custom wallpaper be cleaned?

We recommend lightly cleaning it with a warm, damp cloth. Please avoid any chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

Can I get a sample / proof print?

We have pre-printed A4 swatches of our wallpaper available to pick up from our showroom or we can post them out to you. We can also run out small sample prints of your actual wallpaper for a small cost, please contact us for details.